Joe Bonamassa releases “Bad Penny (Live)” and “Back On My Stompin’ Ground (Live)” today, the latest previews of ‘The Spirit Of Rory Live From Cork’, his full tribute album and concert film arriving June 19 via J&R Adventures. Both tracks were recorded during Bonamassa’s sold-out three-night stand in Cork, Ireland, a tribute performed with the blessing of Gallagher’s family that grew from a planned one-off concert into something far larger as fans travelled from around the world to celebrate Gallagher’s music in the city most closely tied to his legacy.
“Bad Penny,” originally from Gallagher’s 1979 album ‘Top Priority’, was a live staple built on punchy groove and defiant blues-rock energy. Bonamassa’s Cork version leans into the tension and drive of the original rather than smoothing it out, with the crowd audibly locked in throughout. “Back On My Stompin’ Ground,” from Gallagher’s 1973 album ‘Blueprint’, offered one of the set’s most personal moments, a song about return and belonging performed in Gallagher’s hometown, with the arrangement given room to breathe and the audience carrying much of the emotional weight.
The full album spans 14 songs across the many dimensions of Gallagher’s catalog, from the explosive “Walk On Hot Coals” and “Bullfrog Blues” to more reflective moments like “Tattoo’d Lady” and “I Fall Apart.” DVD and Blu-ray editions include bonus features, among them ‘The Inspiration of Rory’, featuring conversations with Brian May and Slash, plus behind-the-scenes footage from Cork.
‘The Spirit Of Rory Live From Cork’ arrives June 19 digitally, on CD/DVD, CD/Blu-ray, and double 180-gram red marble vinyl.